Maddox Max hails from Los Angeles and made his way to South Florida looking for a change of scenery after his divorce, “I just decided I would come out here. I was visiting [my best friend] often, and I loved South Florida. I would always end up extending my trips.”
The former video game and software developer found his passion for inking skin during the pandemic. It was during this time that Max began trying to address the disparity in numbers. “I've been getting tattooed for a really long time. I've been in every type of shop you can be in. I've talked to a lot of different artists and stuff like that … the tattoo industry for the queer community just lacks a lot.”
Serving as both ornamental art and gender-affirming care, Max felt the need for more inclusive spaces and even dedicated spaces within the tattoo industry, “The industry is predominantly run by White cis men, and you know, for me. Yes, as someone who enjoys getting tattoos, I just felt like it would be cool to be able to go to a shop that has really awesome art and feel like it's a space that I belong in.”
In addition to tattooing, Max also gives his time to Compass LGBTQ+ Center’s youth mentorship program, “it feels really good … you can actually make a difference … showing up for them is super important.”
Max offered a glimpse of his future plans, stating, “I'm just working on building a clientele, letting the community know that I'm here and available, and ready to get some ready to do some cool work.”
Homepage: OUT & PROUD 2024
